Europe's climate goals under pressure: progress or standstill?

Europe's climate goals under pressure: progress or standstill?

On October 24, 2025, the challenges in the area of ​​climate protection will once again be in focus, while the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) is approaching in Belém from November 10. In this context, the European Parliament has made clear demands that underline the urgency of the issue. SPÖ EU MP Günther Sidl emphasizes that a holistic approach to climate protection is essential. It calls for innovative strategies in the areas of clean production, sustainable agriculture and research into environmental technologies. These new approaches could secure the technological edge that is crucial for future European jobs. However, Sidl warns against diluting the progress already made in the Green Deal and points out that the climate emergency was declared in the European Parliament years ago.

The current situation shows regression in various areas, especially with regard to the 2040 climate target, which aims to reduce emissions by 90 percent. Scientists warn unequivocally of devastating consequences if these goals are no longer pursued seriously. This is happening under pressure from the European People's Party, which is criticized for pushing back on measures that have been decided. These developments raise questions such as the question of anchoring an effective climate policy in the permanent political agenda.

The context of climate policy in Europe

Climate policy has been a central issue since the EU parliamentary elections in May 2019. At that time, the Fridays for Future movement demonstrated around the world, signaling a growing awareness of the urgency of the climate crisis. There were a particularly large number of young people among those eligible to vote who supported the Greens. Ursula von der Leyen subsequently presented the Green Deal as a cornerstone of her agenda, with the ambitious goal of making Europe climate-neutral by 2050. However, critical voices from countries such as Hungary and the Netherlands highlight the tensions that arise when implementing these plans.

The effects of the corona pandemic from 2020 have also triggered significant discussions about the transport transition and the promotion of green technologies. In 2024, extensive legislation was passed to tighten emissions trading and ensure climate neutrality by mid-century. However, there is disagreement about the type of measures that should be taken. Countries like France and Poland rely on nuclear energy, while Germany and Spain focus on renewable energies.

Current challenges and solutions

The 2024 European elections cemented the position of parties skeptical of the Green Deal. This led to important political forces, especially from the Christian Democratic EPP, demanding consideration of economic concerns. As a result, climate and environmental laws have been blocked or weakened, negatively impacting serious implementation of climate goals. This is further exacerbated by current economic challenges. 2024 is predicted to be the warmest year on record, further reinforcing the urgency of action.

The role of the automotive industry is also emphasized in the current discussion. Ursula von der Leyen plans to support them in the future through a “clean deal”. This is intended to ensure competitiveness and not jeopardize compliance with climate goals. The measures the EU is planning in the coming years will require annual investments in the hundreds of billions, although the consensus on shared debt remains controversial. A key issue is also the declining public awareness of the climate crisis, despite a Eurobarometer survey showing that 77% of respondents see climate change as a serious problem.

Developments in climate protection are of crucial importance in Europe. The outcome of the upcoming climate conference in Belém should therefore point the way for the future of European climate policy. The challenges ahead require both political determination and broad social support in order to move closer to the climate goals.